Putin pledges additional tests of nuclear-capable missiles targeting Ukraine

Putin Promises More Tests of Hypersonic Missile as Zelensky Calls for Enhanced Air Defenses

Russian President Vladimir Putin has pledged continued combat testing of the experimental Oreshnik hypersonic missile, which was recently fired at Ukraine, sparking international concern. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded by urging allies to provide updated air-defense systems to counter the emerging threat.

Speaking at a televised meeting with military officials, Putin confirmed plans for additional tests under combat conditions, citing security threats to Russia. He also announced the beginning of serial production for the new missile, which reportedly flies at 10 times the speed of sound and has a range of up to 5,500 kilometers, capable of striking European allies but falling short of reaching the United States.

The missile's introduction intensifies tensions in the nearly three-year war, with Kyiv struggling to counter Russian advances. Moscow claimed on Friday to have captured another village in eastern Ukraine, while Kyiv's parliament canceled its session amid heightened fears of missile attacks.

Escalating Threats and Regional Impact

Thursday’s missile strike targeted an aerospace facility in Dnipro, drawing condemnation from Ukraine's allies. Putin’s statements hinting at strikes against Western countries that allow Kyiv to attack Russian territory further escalated fears of a broader conflict. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned of a "serious and real" threat of global war.

Zelensky described the missile attack as “Russian madness” and called for immediate reinforcement of Ukraine's air defenses. He emphasized that ignoring the missile threat was not an option, particularly as Ukrainian forces face mounting pressure near critical logistics hubs like Kurakhove in Donetsk.

Rising Global Concerns

Meanwhile, reports of North Korean troops being integrated into Russian formations near the Ukrainian border have raised additional alarm. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that around 10,000 North Korean troops are being trained for combat, potentially bolstering Russia’s manpower in key areas.

In Moscow, public sentiment remains divided. Some citizens expressed confidence in Russia’s victory, while others voiced fears of an escalating nuclear threat.

Economic and Political Fallout

The missile strike and Putin’s warnings also had economic repercussions, with the Russian ruble falling to its lowest level against the U.S. dollar since March 2022. Analysts suggest that both Moscow and Kyiv are seeking strategic gains ahead of January 2025, when Donald Trump is set to assume the U.S. presidency. Trump has pledged to end the conflict but has not detailed his approach.

As the war drags on, both sides are racing to consolidate their positions, with the specter of hypersonic weapons adding a new layer of complexity to an already volatile conflict.